Regardless of how prepared you are for navigating the airport, long queues, cumbersome security checks, and the constant fear of missing flights are almost guaranteed. And believe it or not, the TSA doesn’t like it any more than we do. Recently, the agency published a list of helpful tips to streamline the screening process just in time for the chaos of Labor Day travel, and last month, it was announced that the TSA is adding Hawai’i as the 11th state from which it will accept digital identification at certain checkpoints.
Photo: Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock
TSA Makes Travel More Convenient With Digital IDs Now Accepted in 11 States
“We are pleased to have partnered with the Hawai’i Department of Transportation to make the digital ID a reality in the Aloha State. This is another way of integrating technology into the aviation security process at no additional cost to the passenger,” says TSA federal security director for Hawai’i, Nanea Vasta.
The Digital ID program is designed to simplify the airport security screening process by eliminating the need to present traditional driver’s licenses or state IDs physically. Instead, participants can use their smartphones to display a digital version of identification, which can be verified by TSA officers using advanced biometric technology.
Travelers with ID cards from these 11 states can add their info to their Apple Wallet.
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Hawai’i
- Iowa
- Maryland
- Nevada
- New York
- Ohio
- Utah
As more states adopt digital identification technology, the program is likely to continue growing and expanding in the coming years. However, it is still in early development. Only select airports are piloting digital ID technology. Before flying, make sure you check TSA’s list of participating airports. You can not travel internationally with a digital ID, but if you want to try it out and reside in one of the 11 states, it’s pretty simple to set up.
To participate in the Digital ID program, you must first download a compatible mobile app, such as the TSA Mobile app or the state-specific app provided by your respective state government. Once downloaded, you can add your digital driver’s license or state ID to the app by following the on-screen instructions.
It’s also worth noting that TSA PreCheck and the Digital ID program are not linked. You don’t need to apply and be accepted for PreCheck to get through security with your phone. 